Zero Tolerance Statement about undesirable behaviour

The University of Groningen is committed to creating an environment for work and study where staff and students are treated with dignity and respect. Since 1614, the UG has developed into a highly diverse community of around 6,000 staff members and 31,000 students of all ages, identities and orientations and from more than 120 different countries. The UG considers diversity an important aspect of academic success. The UG is convinced that exceptional teaching and research can only take place in an open academic community that hosts many different talents.

Our differences are inevitable, but they also make us stronger. In our community, we discuss and debate topics related to higher education and academic research with respect for one another. All forms of bullying and harassment are thus not tolerated. We want to ensure that our community, across all of our locations, is free from prejudice, discrimination, harassment and bullying.

We take a zero tolerance approach to all forms of behaviour by staff and students that intend to violate the dignity of others. Zero tolerance means that we will never tolerate, condone or ignore bullying, harassment or hate crimes of any kind. We recognize that these behaviours can take many forms. They may be carried out face-to-face or online; they may be subtle, covert or overt abuses of power.

All staff and students at the University of Groningen have a collective responsibility to encourage a culture of dignity and respect; to treat others fairly, with courtesy and consideration; and to always challenge inappropriate behaviour when it is safe to do so. Supervisors, managers and professors have a particular responsibility to lead by example, identifying inappropriate cultures and behaviours when these arise and taking prompt action to stop or prevent them.

Any allegation of harassment, hate crime, bullying or victimization will be treated seriously, regardless of the seniority of those involved. Anyone found to have behaved unacceptably may be the subject of disciplinary action. We have guidance, policies and procedures to support all students and staff who are affected by harassment, bullying or hate crime.

See My University or Student Portal to find more information on reporting an incident and getting support.